Wimbledon Racquets & Fitness Club

I used to play quite a bit of tennis when I was younger but then I got older. A while back I decided that maybe I'd quite like to take it up again but on a smaller court, where I could have a few drinks either before or after and not be completely and utterly destroyed for days. Things had got bad with the fitness and the tennis.

So that's when I decided that badminton might be the answer. After considering the options in the local area I dragged a friend down to one of their open sessions on a Sunday evening. It's £10 for about two hours and if you're new you get lessons in with that. Not cheap really but it's good to see if you like it enough to continue. After that you can either join or try table tennis, an even smaller court.

I didn't end up continuing the badminton for very long but actually did really enjoy it here. It's an ultra friendly club, very neighbourhoodly, a little bit suburban and most members are either older or very young. Good indoor racquet sport options though for cold weather adverse. Gym too.

I used to play there in weekends, They have very helpful and friendly staff. But not sure The ten tip bowling wasn't working.

A brief study of previous clubs I've been to


Nearly all of the badminton clubs I've had the pleasure of gracing tend to subscribe to various extremes. These can be applied to the temperaments of the people, the quality of the play, the poise and precision of post-play banter, height, width and length of the hall, and the quantity of shuttle cocks. Because without enough shuttle cocks we might as well be swatting flies as a form of sweaty recreation. I recall two clubs in particular in Maidstone in Kent. I can't remember what they're called. I forgot them successfully. The first one interested me, because even the worst of players acted in a godlike manner. I left this club. The second abomination had a hall so small, and a ceiling so low that I'm convinced the dwarfs stranded outside wanted their wedding reception back.


Why the Wimbledon Racquet & Fitness Centre is a 'keeper' in my view?


Beyond expectations frankly. Lockers (which require only £1 deposit) and have enough room to keep all you groceries, a child of average height, a jacket, a brief case, and anything else associated with a burdensome modern lifestyle.


The halls (playing space) is huge, immensely well kept and there is ample space allocated for those who wish to watch including (can you believe) more locker space near the court.


But never fear, there aren't endless opportunities for the humble and nimble to spectate gormlessly at the sidelines. Whatever skill level you happen to be; whatever your racquet wielding disposition; you'll get regular on-court action. And advice to improve your game.


The opportunities for improving your technique are constant, and the trainer's timekeeping sharp. For example on Sundays from 5 to 7pm the Beginners & Improvers Session takes place. This is £6 to members and £12 to non-members. The coaching sessions and playing sessions mix in perfectly. Either you can train (the coaching is excellent) or play mixed (or non-mixed) doubles games.


There is also the Open Session on Friday which cost me, as a non-member, £12.50. But that's for over three hours of solid badminton and half time snacks (often delicious Chelsea Buns, doughnuts and Apple Turnovers). And hot tea. This is all thrown in to the price.


If you haven't got a racquet they always have a good quality piece of equipment to hand - no extra charge or renting fee etc.


Excellent stock of badminton goods to buy. I purchased my court shoes from the club for roughly 30 quid (excellent quality - superb in usage). Sublime cushioning. They're good.


There are gym facilities. Full membership includes unlimited use of a fully equipped air-conditioned gym, unlimited use of saunas and changing-room facilities, and a free gym induction/training programme.


Massive bonus: they're not (I repeat not) cliquey like a great many clubs.


Anyhow I could go on and on. And you (doubtless) want your evening to yourself.


I recommend the place. You can find out more here: http://www.wimbledonclub.co.uk


Words: Phillip J Cogger